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Thursday, 19 November 2015

Why you Should Get a Custom Gown

If you've never had clothing custom made for you the process can be a bit daunting. Your sewist will ask for all kinds of crazy measurements you didn't even know existed and it can get a bit pricey. So here's a quick guide to explain why it's one of the best decisions you'll make, especially when it comes to costumes and historical sewing.

1. Creative license - You get to completely customize your order. Whether you are buying a complete outfit, or just a few accessories, it's all up to you and your sewist! Working with a professional sewist is like working with any other type of designer. You can show up with a random smattering of ideas and they can help you put it together into a cohesive look. Seriously, they know what they are doing and pretty much anything is possible.

2. Value - Yeah, okay, it costs more than most clothing. This is due to what my friend calls, "The Walmart Effect." We are professional designers and often artists so expect to pay a fair wage. I don't know any seamstress that charges an outrageous amount per hour, and most things are negotiable. If you want a grand, 18th century court dress for $100... well, just keep walking there, skipper! But if you want a certain look that can be achieved with pieces you already have that can be altered, and maybe you just need a certain piece custom made we can help you. For reals, we like puzzles. But be prepared to pay what it's worth or just be honest and tell them your budget. Because you are having something tailor made for you it will wear better and last longer. So really, it's a great value. Plus, once you've found a great sewist you can go back and ask for more things and they already know your body.

3. Fit - Helping design a project may be out of your comfort zone, and it cost a bit more than you expected, but when you put on your finished custom made garment... oh man! Nothing compares to how it feels to have something fit you perfectly without any of the discomfort of an ill-fitting garment. You'll wear it SO MUCH! Even if it's a costume or reenactment outfit, you'll be surprised at how many opportunities you'll find to wear it once you have the perfect garment.

I'm sure there are more reasons, but let's just stick with the 3. I'm a stickler for #3!

As a sewist and tailoress, creating a garment that captures someone's personality is such a gift. Fit is fairly easy if you've paid attention in sewing and drafting class, but the act of working with someone and actually making a garment that meets, and often, exceeds their expectations is THE BEST.

And it's gosh darn fun!

So, here's my promo for the day. I make custom gowns and costumes. For reals. I really love making people Regency gowns as so many woman believe they can't wear them. Oh yes you can!

And I can help you with that.

And wouldn't you know it, Regency Encounters is having another ball in February. You think Lizzy Bennet went to Mr. Bingley's ball in an ill-fitting, hand-me-down dress? Surely, not! So why should you?

Check out my Etsy shop for more details. Again, it's completely customizable. I'll even make you a matching reticule!